De BieOrigin
De Bie brewery was born in 1992 in the shadow of the hop fields of Watou, a brewing village a stone's throw from Poperinge and the French border. In its early days, it was one of the smallest artisan breweries in Flanders.
Zatte Bie, Hellekapelle and Helleketel were the first beers of this family brewery. Sales were made in simple plastic containers and people could taste the delicious brews in the small bistro next to the brewery, the Hellekapelle.
Takeover
In 1998, the brewery was taken over by Jos Tjoen, who modernized it to ensure its development.
As a result, the site quickly became too small for the planned expansion and had to move, which happened in 2001, when De Bie brewery moved to Loker in a large inn bearing the same name: Hellekapelle.
The brewery was completely renovated and thus was born an establishment where it was pleasant to chat while tasting a beer and something to eat. A shop selling beers also opened.
Growth
In the wake of the enormous success of artisanal and local beers, this site also became too small. This is why, in 2011, De Bie brewery moved to a much larger farm in Wakken (Dentergem).
In a nutshell, the original family project with 3 craft beers has now transformed into a renowned brewery making 10 beers, all artisanal, faithful to tradition.
Process
De Bie brewery uses only natural quality ingredients, meaning no chemical additives. Hops, wheat and rye come from their own fields surrounding the farm. The spent grain is put to good use to feed the Limousin cattle that the Limousin farmers raise with the same respect for nature as we do. All in all, it's a closed circuit free of any chemicals. Cheers!
Welcome to all
The fully renovated farm allows you to discover the ins and outs of artisan beer brewing, from the hop fields to bottling. You witness the making of "authentic" beers.
You can also taste 10 artisanal beers fit for a king's palate, each characterized by a particular aroma. Each one also holds its own story. Feel free to visit us!
